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Volume 35, Issue 3, 2016

Establishing a new protected area for the endangered Fijian free-tailed bat

BCI and our partners in Fiji are one step closer to securing habitat critical for the survival of the endangered Fijian free-tailed bat (Chaerephon bregullae). The only known roost and maternity colony of the species is found at Nakanacagi Cave
on the

Very little is known about the habitat and ecology of the Fijian free-tailed bat. (Chaerephon bregullae) Photo: Shawn Thomas

Fijian island of Vanua Levu. Development of the land around the cave has placed this important roosting site, where over 95 percent of the species’ global population is believed to reside, at increasing risk.

To protect this critically important habitat, BCI, in partnership with the National Trust of Fiji, Birdlife International, the University of the South Pacific, and NatureFiji-MareqetiViti, hope to secure the two parcels (22 hectares) of privately owned
land surrounding the cave.

After two years of stakeholder negotiations, the conservation team is pleased to announce that Mr. Amrit Sen, the owner of one of the private land parcels, has generously committed to donate his family’s 13.5 ha to be held in trust for Fiji.

This generous donation is an inspiration to many around the world!

We have also confirmed that the Matasawalevu Land Purchase Co-op Society, who owns the other remaining parcel of land, is willing to sell their 8.5 ha. BCI is currently working with its partners to move this land purchase forward to protect the cave.